LOULOU Couture: The Hand Finished Gowns from the Bucharest Atelier

The short answer: LOULOU is a Romanian label founded in Bucharest in 2012 by Andra Turcanu, and its couture pieces are hand finished in the house’s own Bucharest atelier. The gowns to know are the Velvet Cutout Feather Gown, the Contrast Mermaid Gown and the Midnight in Paris Gown. Shop them on the LOULOU page and in evening gowns.

LOULOU describes itself as high end ready to wear with a couture soul. The house designs in Florence, takes its energy from Los Angeles, and makes its pieces with tailors and artisans in Bucharest. Collections are produced in limited runs, and several pieces are made to order after you buy them. The brand says it is worn in thirty six countries.

What makes it couture

Hand applied crystals. The glass crystals on LOULOU gowns are set by hand, which is why they sit in clean lines.

Structure. Boned bodices, corsets and stretch crepe hold the shape, and silk taffeta gives the volume.

Made to order. Some pieces are only made once you order, which reduces waste and gives the atelier time to finish them properly.

The gowns to know

1. Velvet Cutout Feather Gown

Purple velvet with side cut-outs held by crystal buckles and an ostrich feather skirt.

2. Contrast Mermaid Gown

A crystal bustier, a black bodice and a pink taffeta skirt with a train.

3. Midnight in Paris Gown

Strapless black leather with a feathered hem.

4. Asymmetrical Embellished Gown

Black silk crepe with a taffeta drape and crystals.

5. Crystal Strap Peplum Gown

Purple heavy crepe with a peplum and crystal chain straps.

6. Magenta Satin Gown

Magenta satin with strong shoulders and a deep V.

7. Draped Cut Out Knit Gown

A purple draped knit with cut-outs.

8. Black Bow Maxi Dress

A black maxi with sculpted bows. The most dramatic piece in the collection.

Frequently asked questions

Who is the designer of LOULOU?

Andra Turcanu founded LOULOU in Bucharest in 2012.

Where is LOULOU made?

In the label’s own atelier in Bucharest, Romania. The house designs in Florence.

Is LOULOU couture made to order?

Several pieces are. The product page says when a piece is made to order, and those take longer to dispatch.

What is LOULOU known for?

Crystal embellishment, feather trims, sculpted tailoring and a rock and roll attitude, across gowns, mini dresses, denim and hoodies.

Is LOULOU a luxury brand?

Yes. It is an independent luxury label with hand finished pieces. Our full answer goes into detail.

Read next: mermaid gowns, brands like LOULOU, and the LOULOU size guide.